ZDF Studios to distribute SA’s Legacy

Germany’s ZDF Studios has acquired the worldwide distribution rights, excluding Africa, Latin America and French-speaking territories, to South African telenovela Legacy.

Legacy (104×45’) was produced by Tshedza Pictures for South African pay TV network M-Net, part of MultiChoice. Written by Gwydion Beynon and Phathutshedzo Makwarela, the SAFTA-winning show premiered in 2020 and ended last year after two seasons.

The series features a diverse cast including Mary-Anne Barlow, Michelle Botes, Dawid Minnaar, Kgomotso Christopher and Siyabong Thwala.

Set in the world of investment banking and billionaires, Legacy centres on a power struggle following the death of a wealthy patriarch and company CEO, with his bitter ex-wife and their ruthless daughter doing whatever it takes to ensure his second wife does not push her playboy son into succeeding him.

After concluding the distribution deal with M-Net Electronic Media Network and DSTV Media Sales, both also part of MultiChoice, ZDF Studios will be taking the series to Cannes event Mipcom this year. Yuliya Fischer, director of drama at the German company, said the South African show “will be one of the key titles on our drama slate” at the event.

Mauro Black, director of content sales and distribution at MultiChoice, added: “The series performed well with audiences in South Africa, and partnering with the highly respected ZDF Studios is going to allow our proudly African content to be enjoyed across the globe.”

tagged in: Legacy, M-Net, MultiChoice, Tshedza Pictures, ZDF Studios